A Spigelian hernia: Single-center experience in an uncommon hernia

BACKGROUND: A Spigelian hernia is rare. Diagnosis and treatment remain controversial, mainly because of its unusual presentation. The aim of this study was to report the outcomes of open treatment of eight rare cases and to evaluate our experiences in managing this condition. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective and descriptive study about operated patients for Spigelian hernia in our department of surgery between 2002 and 2016. RESULTS: Eight patients were enrolled. The mean age was 52.25 years. There was a female predominance. All cases presented hernia risk factors. A painful abdominal mass presented the reason for consultation in four cases. Two of our patients had an associated inguinal hernia and one other had an umbilical hernia. In three cases, the hernia was strangulated. The diagnosis was confirmed by clinical examination in two cases and using radiological examinations in six cases. The content was a small bowel in four cases, epiploic in three cases, and colic in one case. A sublay mesh repair was performed in five cases and a primary suture in three cases. No recurrences were detected after 2 years of follow-up. CONCLUSION: Spigelian hernia is underestimated. Open sublay mesh repair is feasible and safe. It ensure a great short and long term results. The open approach is feasible and safe to treat this condition.